There was recently an outbreak of canine distemper at an animal shelter in Ohio. Canine distemper is a highly contagious, incurable and often fatal disease. VCA Animal Hospitals reports that the viral infection can be prevented with dog vaccinations, which is why it is important for pet owners to bring their furry friends to the vet to make sure their animals are up-to-date with their shots.

An outbreak can spread quickly, and The Associated Press reports the Ohio outbreak caused the shelter to shut down for a week. Due to the severity of their illness, about 24 dogs had to be euthanized. Even if a dog survives a distemper infection they may be affected by muscle twitching, seizures or other neurologic signs the rest of their life. Treatment for the disease typically focuses on reducing the severity of the symptoms and making the animal as comfortable as possible.

Prevention is the best way to avoid infection with distemper. Even though distemper is far less common today than it was a few decades ago, it is still a reality for some. Animal shelters, which are often nonprofit organizations, need help to care for their charges and prevent serious outbreaks.

BUSINESS HOURS

Emergency

Your emergency and urgent care needs can be met right here at our hospital, 7 days a week from 7:00am to 11:00pm.

If you are in need of assistance between the hours of 11:00pm and 7:00am, please call VCA Advanced Veterinary Care at (317) 578-4100. They are located on the northeast side of Indianapolis at 7712 Crosspoint Common; Fishers, IN; 46038.

We provide the highest standard in veterinary emergency and critical care services. We are trained and equipped to perform a variety of emergency surgeries and procedures. We provide the highest standards of pain management. Emergency internal medicine consultations, including full diagnostics, are available.

Please call or come in immediately if you feel your pet is having an emergency or needs after-hours care.

Specialty Care

As part of the VCA family, we have over 83 specialty hospitals across the US and Canada which provide referral specialty care, so there may be one near you. Enter ZIP to find VCA specialty care hospitals near you.